Get your questions answered here...
Here you'll find the most frequently asked questions.
The list isn't exhaustive so please ask if anything isn't covered or you'd like to chat about any of these.
How do I secure a booking?
Firstly, you are able to make a provisional booking for more than five days but I am only able to secure your booking/dates with a 50% non- refundable deposit with a Pet Care Agreement signed and returned.
Call/Whatsapp: 0734 0924031 Email: goingawaysomerset@icloud.com
How far in advance do I need to book?
It is best to book your dates well in advance to avoid disappointment. So, as soon as you know when you are going away, it’s best to get in touch to see if the dates are available – or get in touch with me first if you want to make sure your animals are cared for and in their normal routine.
What is Overnight Pet Sitting and what are visits?
Visits are when I come into your home and ensure your pet is cared for around 30 minutes or longer if required.
Overnight Pet Sitting is when I come and stay in your home with your pet, in their own routine when you are away.
( further details can be found on the services and fees page)
What areas do you cover?
Although based in Highbridge and Burnham on Sea area, I do provide cover for Bridgwater, Western Super Mare and the whole of Somerset and anywhere in the UK and overseas - subject to availability.
What are the Mileage costs?
For areas 4 miles within the TA9 postcode – mileage is covered and included. For areas beyond this, mileage is charged at 50p per mile to cover fuel costs or train costs agreed between us.
How do I know my booking is secure?
You’ll sign an agreement/contract which secures your booking when your 50% non- refundable deposit is paid.
Can I book at the last minute?
Occasionally you may be running late or circumstances change, and if I can help, I certainly will. The fees are the same and I don’t add additional fees for last-minute bookings.
What services do you offer?
Take a look at the services and fees drop down section of the website. This list is not exhaustive so please ask if there is anything else you require and if I can help, I will.
Are you police checked?
Yes, we are – giving you extra piece of mind. You should never have your pet looked after by someone who isn’t.
Can you care for animals with additional special needs?
Yes indeed. I have a background in caring for children and adults with additional needs and currently undertaking further diplomas as well as having a pet first aid course. We will go through how I can help and what’s needed when I visit. There is only a slight charge for the administration of medication. This can be found on the ‘services and fees’ page of this website.
How will you know my pet’s routine?
I insist upon a free ‘meet and greet’ to get acquainted with you and your pets and you can go through the detail then.
I also love a list – so you can email me on: goingawaysomerset@icloud.com
All details need to be agreed before signing the Pet Sitting Agreement/Contract but don’t worry if you forget something … I will always do my best to meet your pets needs.
Will you administer pet medication?
Yes, absolutely. There is a charge of £3 per medication administered.
How will I know my pet is happy while I'm away?
I'll send you a picture message a day if you'd like – I'll need access to your wifi. Sometimes, I may send more than one. Let me know if you'd prefer I didn't send them.
Can I leave my video doorbell and indoor cameras on while I'm away?
I do not pet sit in homes with internal camera's and switch them off if you have them. This is explained in your pet sitting contract.
Will you be in my house the whole time?
Generally yes, but depending on the pet sit and location. I will have errands to run as we all do, but will never leave your animal or home for more than a few hours and this will be agreed with you on our free meet and greet session. Rest assured, I take the responsibility of caring for your pets as seriously as I would my own.
Are my animals allowed to stay with Going Away Somerset?
We may be able to look after small animals in my home. Please ask for more information.
Will you look after my home if I don't have a pet?
Yes of course, please contact me to discuss your needs and how I can help.
How do I pay?
Pet Visits: These are payable on the day of the visit after the 50% non-refundable deposit is paid.
Payments are required on the day and ideally made before the visit. Preferred payment is via bank transfer – I’ll of course provide the details in advance. If you like to pay another way, please ask. Cheques are not accepted.
Overnight Pet Sitting:
Bookings are to be secured with a non-refundable deposit, the deposit amount will be agreed upon at the time of booking (usually 50% of total booking). If no deposit is received, the booking will be void and may no longer be available upon request.
Full payment is expected 14 days prior to the start date of your booking for overnight stays. Late payments may result in the termination of this contract.
Payments can be made via bank transfer – details will in advance. If you like to pay another way, please ask. Cheques are not accepted.
Cancellation due to my pet passing away
Firstly, I am sorry for your loss. Sadly as you have paid a non-refundable deposit, this is as stated non-refunable. As for the remaining balance, I would not expect you to pay this. If I do get a booking in replace of your cancelled booking, I will refund the proportion paid as deposit by the new client.
Do you look after pets on bank holidays?
Yes, we do. These carry a surcharge per visit as below. However, if your visit is an overnight stay for 7 days or more, this is reduced. We can discuss this during the time of booking.
Christmas Day and New Year's Day carry an extra surcharge of £300.
Christmas Eve carries a surcharge of £50
Boxing Day will carry an extra surcharge of £250.00.
Good Friday and Easter Sunday carry an extra surcharge of £100 per day.
Other Bank Holidays carry a surcharge of £100.
